Fixing and release systems

Abstract

A connecting means adapted to releasably fix or release a first element (4) and a second element (5) includes a locking pin (1) which is moveable by remote activation means between a locked position, in which leg (8) expands wall (9) into recess (10), and an unlocked position. The remote activation means may be magnetic, electromagnetic or any other suitable means. There is no permanent material connection between the pin (1) and the remote activation means. A method of fixing or releasing first and second elements by remote activation means is also disclosed. The invention further provides an embodiment where the first element is a first panel and the second element is a second panel. The first panel has means (166 or 169) which co-ordinate with means (165 or 170) on the second panel. A method of manufacturing the first element includes the steps of depositing discrete amounts of setable material on a surface of the first element and inverting the element to permit the material to set under the influence of gravity. A method of reducing the spacing between first and second elements by remote activation means is also disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 646,741, filed Sep. 18, 2000, which is a national phase entry of International Patent Application No. PCT / AU99 / 00185, filed Mar. 18, 1999, which claims priority to Australian Patent Application Number PP2477, filed Mar. 18, 1998. These prior applications are all hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] This invention lies in the field of fixing and / or release systems for a myriad of products and applications. This invention also relates to connectors for use in fixing and release systems. BACKGROUND ART [0003] The need to fix one element to another, such as a panel to a stud, has given rise to a large technology relating to fasteners. Primitive versions, such as nails and screws, are labour intensive and have the drawback that the fixing means are visible externally. It is desirable to fix one element to another so that th...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] Preferably, the fixing and / or the release can be effected without marking or damaging the first and second elements.

[0077] It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that “on board technology” enables the manufacturer of the elements to build in added value to the elements, and increase the profit of the manufacturer, since a higher price may be charged for the elements with “on board technology”, because subsequent treatment may be reduced.

Problems solved by technology

Primitive versions, such as nails and screws, are labour intensive and have the drawback that the fixing means are visible externally.

This is labour intensive and generally results in post-finishing.

Further, common methods of fixing are rarely reversible without damage to the elements being fixed.

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